Becoming a sheet metal worker in Port Lavaca, TX, typically begins with an apprenticeship, combining hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about three to five years, requiring approximately 8,000 hours of training under experienced professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 126,200 sheet metal workers nationwide, with a projected 0.2% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices in Texas earn an average of $639 per week, with an annual overtime average of $2,936. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Guild help aspiring sheet metal workers find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $56,000 annually for experienced professionals.
